SoCo provides engaging and vibrant music-making and multi-arts activities for the elderly and those with dementia. These tailored, interactive programmes, from sing-alongs to songwriting, storytelling to music and movement, offer a multitude of mental and physical health benefits.
The Benefits of Music on Older People and those with Dementia:
Older people living in care homes can benefit greatly from being given the chance to take part in music-making as it can improve their quality of life and create a happier place to live.
The benefits of music on both the mental and physical wellbeing of residents is numerous, and it is particularly beneficial for those living with dementia as it can bring rare moments of clarity and calm for those that suffer from confusion and agitation as their memory deteriorates. Music’s strong connection to emotion can support a reduction in anxiety by distracting attention away from stressful situations. Even for those where some areas of the brain are damaged and communication is restricted, listening to and taking part in music-making can tap into their ‘musical memory’ and produce a strong emotional response. By accessing the parts of the brain that remain unaffected by dementia, music becomes an avenue for communication and engagement.
Our Music Active programmes:
- Are fun and enjoyable – they help participants to relax, reduce stress and can be used to maintain calmness and reduce anxiety.
- Improve emotional and social functioning by using music as a means of self-expression and communication – a particularly effective tool for those with dementia.
- Are sociable and bring people together. Our interactive sessions encourage participation from residents, their families and staff, reducing social isolation and building vital connections. They can be conducive to improving and maintaining relationships and trust between residents and caregivers, offering plenty of opportunities to share stories and experiences.
- Promote positive mental health by boosting confidence and self-esteem.
- Support improvements in cognitive function through the development of creative skills.
- Stimulate participants’ memory by inspiring reminiscence and exploring musical identity and personal archiving. This is essential for those living with dementia as it can instil a sense of identity and positive memories.
- Create an outlet for self-expression through music sharing, improvisation and song/lyric writing.
- Support the development of physical wellbeing through the use of movement with music.
